I'm not using co2 but I spent a good 5 years of my hobby on the planted tank side and fell in deep. I returned to my first lover which is cichlids but that time spent on the planted side really helped me refine the aquascape. The submersed plants are swords which are undemanding. The emersed plants are dieffenbachia, spathyphyllum, pothos, and spider plants.
if you want to learn more let me know. I'm happy to help.